TERRE HAUTE – The State Budget Committee wrapped up a two-day visit to Terre Haute, where members reviewed agency budget requests and heard updates on Medicaid fiscal policy. Following the meeting, State Senator David Niezgodski (D-South Bend), a voting member of the committee, said the discussions highlighted opportunities to strengthen Indiana’s future by investing in people, communities and key services like health care and education.

“Today was a chance to come together and focus on how we can build a healthier, stronger Indiana,” Niezgodski said. “I’ve heard from Hoosiers across the state who are working hard to support their families as consumer costs continue to climb, and it’s clear that thoughtful investments can make a real difference.”

The committee heard testimony from the Secretary of Commerce about new economic initiatives, including proposed Innovation Development Districts (IDD) across Indiana and in South Bend.

“Allowing South Bend to capture dollars to drive development in lifestyle, tech, health care, and the arts is a major investment that will benefit the northcentral region and serve as a model for other parts of the state,” Niezgodski said. “This IDD will create jobs, expand hospital facilities and the Morris Performing Arts Center and attract new talent to the tech sector.”

Niezgodski explained that projects like the IDD show how targeted investment can strengthen local economies and empower communities across Indiana.

In addition to economic development, the committee also heard budget requests from the Department of Correction. Committee members raised strong concerns about ensuring proper and humane treatment for every individual brought into state facilities, along with timely communication and transparency for families and communities.

“Whenever we talk about public safety, we must also talk about dignity,” Niezgodski said. “That includes making sure there is clear communication with families and a firm commitment to the wellbeing of those in the state’s care.”

During the Family and Social Services Administration presentation, Secretary Mitch Robb suggested that “every dollar we send to a hospital is a dollar we don’t send to a school” and “every dollar we give a doctor is a dollar we don’t give to a teacher.”

“Funding is not simply about moving dollars around; it’s about investing in what matters most to Hoosiers,” Niezgodski said. “For many years, education and health care have consistently received the highest levels of state support because these are core priorities for our residents. Suggesting that one must be funded at the expense of the other is misleading. Both are essential, and both deserve our continued commitment.”

Niezgodski emphasized the importance of putting working Hoosiers at the center of the state’s growth, ensuring no one is left behind.

“Economic development is truly successful when families and communities feel the benefits, not just the bottom line,” said Niezgodski.